Yamiyo no Hotaru

Chapter 124

　The banquet began sometime after it got dark for a couple of hours. The military commander, acting as the host, organized the event with the city's chief official. Over a hundred important people from the city and nearby rich families came. They had lots of booze and delicious food. There were also geisha who performed for everyone. Even though there were a few small problems, the mood was happy and everyone was celebrating.

　For Hotoya Tamaki, however, this was a time devoid of joy.

　"..."

　Among the attendees at the banquet, this new household member occupied a corner of the seating area. She was genuinely fed up with the noisy surroundings, the strong scent of alcohol, and the opulent dishes before her. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say she was quite disheartened.

　Part of it was her lack of tolerance for alcohol. She might have also been tired due to the similar circumstances she faced at her lodgings each time. However, her inability to enjoy such an occasion had deeper roots.

　One reason was the stark contrast with the common people. Initially, this wasn't apparent, but as she explored the city, it became clear. Homeless people wandering the city's streets, leaving villages during the planting season to construct shacks at the city's corners. How could she wholeheartedly enjoy the extravagant feast before her after witnessing such scenes? However, it seemed Tamaki was in the minority with this perspective among the attendees, which further disappointed her.

　There were more personal reasons as well. Being a new and inexperienced exorcist, inexperienced in the ways of the world, and a member of Hotoya's family—all of these aspects posed issues.

　"Well, well, if it isn't the subject of many rumors. My, my, how surprised I am. Who would have thought Hotoya's household member would be such a charming young lady!"

　As the nobleman sitting in front of her shifted in his seat and laughed heartily, he generously poured sake into her cup. She could only manage a strained smile in response. This exchange had happened numerous times already, with different people.

　This situation was similar to what happened during the incident at 'Mayoiga,' but her position was as if a duck had arrived bearing green onions (someone's role or position is unexpected, out of place, or doesn't quite fit the context). A young lady from the prosperous Hotoya village known even in the Northern region. Her face clearly lacked the experience in manipulation, but by adorning it with her talents, beauty, and achievements, she became nothing but a prey.

　"Hm... hm, ha! Ha, hahaha...?"

　"Ha-ha-ha! You're quite the drinker! I'm envious. Now, now, have another drink!"

　"Ugh...?"

　The nobleman forced another drink into her cup as if it were natural. Faced with the sudden and merciless reinforcement, her intelligence to handle the situation calmly was deteriorating rapidly, clouded by intoxication. Losing control was not good; absolutely not!

　(Ugh, ugh...?)

　Somehow getting a confession or, if not, making an excuse to take care of her while she's drunk... The nobleman wasn't without such sinister intentions. To say "don't show greed" would be too tempting considering the delicious prey that presented himself.

　By the way, it wasn't only her who was targeted. The daughters of Tachibana, the Onitsuki princesses, also posed problems. Tachibana's young lady was too talkative and could be easily manipulated. The first princess was either immune to intoxication or self-destructed against those trying to intoxicate her and was sent to her room one after another. As for the other princess, she didn't even attend, citing personal reasons. Though rumors suggested the real reason was more political... whatever the case, it was undoubtedly one of the reasons her troubles were increasing.